San Vito Lo Capo Peninsula

Monte Cofano forms the ridgeback of this picturesque peninsula. On the east coast, the Zingaro nature reserve is a haven for walkers among the many untouched coves. Castellammare del Golfo, at the southern end, was settled as a port by Segesta’s original inhabitants. The Norman castle is evidence of Castellammare’s lasting maritime importance, while the marina is now lined with restaurants. At the northern tip, San Vito Lo Capo is a resort par excellence, with clear waters and a white sandy beach.

Erice & Trapani

From its strategic hilltop location, the town of Erice has always enjoyed natural protection and thrived over three millennia. The cobbled streets which now weave through Erice are mostly from the 14th to 17th centuries. The architectural highlights are the Gothic exterior and wonderful sculpture inside the Matrice and the arabesque Basilica of San Giovanni Battista. The small section of historic city walls are worth visiting to enjoy the views north to Monte Cofano. To the west, the panorama takes in the coastline around Trapani, originally set up as Erice’s port and now a resurgent town in its own right; the two are joined by the public cable car service.